The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Private First Class Norman E. Roode (ASN: 31327074), United States Army, for heroism while serving with the 24th Infantry Division in action on the Taloma River, Mindanao, Philippine Islands, on 3 August 1945. Private First Class Roode and three comrades when to the Taloma River to swim and wash their clothes. Private First Class Roode swam across the river to the opposite bank and proceeded to wash his clothes. Private First Class Figoro thought he also could swim to the other side of the swiftly moving river, but when half way across he became frightened and was unable to make further progress. He called for help and Private First Class Bunton, who was nearer, reached the drowning man first, but due to Private First Class Figoro’s struggling was unable to rescue him and started to go under with the drowning man. Seeing the plight of his two comrades, Private First Class Roode dived into the water and swam to the drowning men. He managed to separate the two men thus enabling Private First Class Bunton to swim to safety. He then proceeded to drag the drowning man to shore. Private First Class Roode’s heroic action and disregard for his own safety undoubtedly save the lives of his two comrades. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Private First Class Roode reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.